The ICL Inquiry

The ICL Inquiry was established in April 2009 following an explosion at ICL Plastics Ltd in Glasgow that killed nine people and injured 33. Lord Gill's inquiry examined the causes of the explosion and made recommendations to prevent similar incidents. The inquiry published its final report in December 2016, making seven recommendations focused on improving LPG safety.

The government's response, published in Command Paper 7849, accepted five recommendations fully, one in principle, and rejected one. The key recommendation for replacing buried metallic LPG service pipes was accepted, with HSE tasked to implement a nationwide programme targeting up to 40,000 premises. Higher-risk premises were scheduled for completion by end 2013, with all industrial and commercial premises by 2015.

The government rejected the recommendation for mandatory independent audits of all workplace risk assessments, citing 78% stakeholder opposition and stating that other proposed measures for LPG installations made independent audit unnecessary. The recommendation for an accredited registration scheme for LPG suppliers was accepted in principle, with 70% stakeholder support, though the government sought further consultation on implementation options.

According to HSE confirmation dated December 2015, all buried metallic LPG service pipe replacements were completed by the 2015 deadline. The same update indicates completion status for all seven recommendations, though specific details of implementation for recommendations beyond the pipe replacement programme are not provided in the available evidence.

Other documented actions include HSE's development of web-based guidance for LPG users, establishment of regular communication channels between HSE and industry bodies, and HSE-funded research into polyethylene piping safety. The evidence suggests a focus on improving guidance, compliance and enforcement within the existing legislative framework rather than introducing new legislation.